• Nuclear Medicine General


Nuclear Medicine exams use small amounts of radioactive materials that are detected by a special camera to produce the images. These materials, which are administered IV or orally, expose patients to minimal radiation…no more than they would receive from a diagnostic x-ray.

Most nuclear medicine exams require simple preparation. The most common preparations are nothing by mouth 4-6 hours before your exam. Occasionally, you will be asked to discontinue certain medications for a specific length of time prior to your exam. Your physician will inform you of these requirements in advance of your exam. If you have any questions, the nuclear medicine staff at PMHC will be happy to help you.

Please arrive at the hospital 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled exam time. A technologist will discuss your procedure with you, answer your questions and take other needed information.

___ Cardiolite Adenosine/Treadmill Stress Test – Nothing to eat after midnight on the day of your exam. No nicotine or caffeine 24 hours prior to your exam. Check with your physician regarding medications.

___ Hepatobiliary (HIDA) Scan – Nothing to eat or drink after midnight the day of your exam.

___ Gastric Emptying Scan – Nothing to eat or drink for 4-6 hours before your exam.

___ Bone Scan – No Prep. You will be asked to drink lots of water after your injection.

___ Lung Scan – No Prep.